Brady was talking about his former backup quarterbacks, Matt Cassel and Brian Hoyer, in general when he said the following:

"I'm friends with both those guys," Brady said. "Matt Cassel, who may be starting this weekend. Brian, I text back and forth."

Vikings starter Christian Ponder revealed Wednesday that he injured his ribs in last week's loss. He was listed as a limited participant on Wednesday's injury report. NFL Media's Aditi Kinkhabwala noted that Ponder finished last week's game, which is a good sign for his availability. Then again, Ponder missed a routine throw late in the fourth quarter that could have put the game away. Perhaps this injury gives the Vikings a chance to take a look at Cassel.